If you plan on visiting markets in Vietnam, especially places like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, just know that bargaining is completely normal and expected.
Markets in Vietnam are fun, chaotic and definitely part of the experience, but it helps to know how bargaining works before you go.
The First Price Is Rarely The Final Price
The first price is very rarely the final price, especially in tourist markets. Vendors often start higher because they expect people to negotiate. For bigger ticket items (1,000,000vnd+) you can often counter their first offer with 50% or less of what they begin with.
Ben Thanh Market Tips
Ben Thanh Market is one of the most famous markets in Vietnam and is definitely worth visiting, even just for the experience.
You’ll find:
- Clothes
- Bags
- Souvenirs
- Shoes
- Snacks
- Coffee
- Literally anything you can think of
That being said, it is very touristy and prices are usually heavily inflated for foreigners.
Start Lower But Stay Friendly
Bargaining in Vietnam is usually done with a smile and a bit of back and forth.
A good rule is:
- Expect the first price to be high
- Offer lower than what you actually want to pay
- Meet somewhere in the middle
The key is staying friendly and laughing about it rather than taking it too seriously.
Walking Away Works Surprisingly Well
One of the best bargaining techniques in Vietnam is honestly just politely walking away.
Quite often, the seller will suddenly offer a much lower price once they realise you might leave. If not, there are probably another 15 stalls selling the exact same thing nearby anyway.
Cash Usually Gets Better Prices
Cash is king at markets. A lot of vendors prefer cash and sometimes will give slightly better prices if you’re paying upfront in cash instead of card.
Having smaller notes also helps make bargaining easier.
Markets vs Fixed-Price Stores
Not everywhere in Vietnam requires bargaining.
Places like shopping centres, convenience stores, larger boutiques and chain cafés usually have fixed prices.
Markets and smaller souvenir shops are where bargaining is most common.
And finally, if you accidentally overpay a little bit, don’t stress too much. Sometimes paying an extra dollar or two still means a lot less than what you’d pay back home.
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